Salmon kabobs are like little treasures of flavorful delight—juicy, vibrant, and utterly irresistible. I remember the first time I grilled these beauties, the aroma was so enchanting that even my neighbor popped over to see what was cooking! Whether it’s a cool evening or a blazing summer afternoon, these skewers bring the essence of outdoor feasting right to your table.
Steps
- Mix extra virgin olive oil, lemon juice and zest, garlic, oregano, thyme, cumin, Aleppo pepper, and coriander in a small bowl to create the marinade.
- In a large bowl, combine salmon cubes, zucchini slices, and onion pieces. Season with salt and pepper, then pour the marinade over the mixture, ensuring everything is well-coated. Let it marinate for 15 to 20 minutes.
- If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes. Then, thread the marinated salmon, zucchini, and onions onto skewers, alternating between the ingredients.
- Preheat an outdoor or indoor grill. Place the skewers on the grill and cover. Cook for 6 to 8 minutes, turning once midway, until the salmon becomes opaque and flakes easily. Use tongs for turning the skewers to prevent breakage.
Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds of salmon fillet, cut into cubes about 1 to 1.5 inches in size
- 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 small red onion, cut into squares
- Kosher salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 to 1/3 cup of extra virgin olive oil
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 teaspoons of fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 2 teaspoons of dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of mild chili pepper (such as Aleppo pepper)
- 1/2 teaspoon of ground coriander
Nutritional Values
Calories: 1200 | Total Fat: 100g | Saturated Fat: 15g | Cholesterol: 200mg | Sodium: 600mg | Total Carbohydrates: 20g | Dietary Fiber: 5g | Sugars: 5g | Protein: 80g
FAQ
- Can I prepare salmon kabobs indoors?
- Yes, salmon kabobs can be cooked indoors. You can use a stovetop griddle or grill pan by brushing it with extra virgin olive oil, heating it on medium, and cooking the kabobs for 3 to 5 minutes on each side. Alternatively, you can broil them in the oven by placing them on a baking sheet about 5 to 6 inches from the broiler, cooking for 4 to 5 minutes on each side.
- How long can I store grilled salmon in the fridge?
- If the salmon was fresh and in good condition before cooking, you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for around 2 days. The flavors, especially the garlic, may intensify over time. It’s best to consume leftover salmon cold or at room temperature, perhaps adding it to a salad or grain bowl.
- What are some recommended side dishes for grilled salmon kabobs?
- Grilled salmon kabobs pair well with a variety of Mediterranean sides. Consider serving them with fresh salads like a Three Bean Salad or Greek Salad. For sides, options include Mediterranean Mustard Potato Salad, Greek Lemon Rice, or Roasted Tomatoes with Thyme and Feta.
- What is the role of the marinade in this recipe?
- The marinade serves two main purposes: it infuses the salmon with flavor and acts as a brine to prevent the salmon from drying out during cooking. The marinade includes quality extra virgin olive oil, lemon zest and juice, garlic, and a mix of herbs and spices.
- Can I customize the salmon marinade?
- Absolutely! If you don’t have fresh thyme, you can substitute it with fresh parsley. For those who prefer a spicier kick, a pinch of cayenne pepper can be added. However, it’s important to use quality olive oil and citrus for the best results.
Tips
- Ensure Skewers are Prepped: If you’re using wooden or bamboo skewers, remember to soak them in water for 30 minutes to an hour prior to grilling. This prevents them from burning on the grill.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the marinade. It not only enhances the flavor but also helps in keeping the salmon moist during cooking.
- Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the salmon to marinate for at least 20 minutes, but for deeper flavor, you can refrigerate it for up to an hour before grilling.
- Effective Indoor Cooking: If using a grill pan indoors, brush it lightly with olive oil and avoid overcrowding the kabobs. Cook them in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
Equipment
- Grill Pan or Griddle – Useful for indoor grilling if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill.
- Wooden or Bamboo Skewers – Essential for threading the salmon and vegetables; make sure to soak them before use.
- Tongs – Helpful for turning the skewers on the grill without damaging the fish.
- Aleppo Pepper – A specific spice mentioned in the marinade that may not be commonly found in every household pantry.
